Remembering Lisa Brinkmeyer, a true Iowa Girl

The former Hubbard-Radcliffe, Drake star died at 48

The Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union has a idealized concept of the “Iowa Girl.” It represents a student-athlete who combines the best of character and ability off and on the court.

Lisa Brinkmeyer VanDeventer, 48, who passed away Thursday after a fight with brain cancer, was a true Iowa Girl.

She was a great high school star at Hubbard-Radcliffe, earning Des Moines Sunday Register Female Athlete of the Year honors in 1993. She led her school to the state’s final six-player basketball championship, earning Miss Iowa Basketball honors.

Lisa Brinkmeyer, right, led Hubbard-Radcliffe to the state’s final six-player basketball championship in 1993. (Photo courtesy Ted Schultz.)

VanDeventer scored 53 points in that final six-on-six game at Veterans Memorial Auditorium, closing the door on a time and place that is still remembered by many.

She was an all-stater in volleyball and a standout in golf and softball, too. She was named to the state’s basketball Hall of Fame.

That kind of high school resume’ would give someone like her a reputation as one of the state’s greatest athletes.

But she was much more.

VanDeventer played basketball at Drake and went on to an outstanding career as an assistant director at the Girls Union.

As a reporter, she was a kind and knowledgeable source who always made time for you. She cared deeply about how extracurricular activities can impact young women, having been there herself. She truly was one of the nicest people I’ve encountered in my career as a sportswriter.

VanDeventer was a skilled administrator. In fact, I thought she would have made a very good executive director of the Girls Union. Alas, she never had the opportunity.

Lisa Brinkmeyer VanDeventer gathers with her family at a Drake basketball game last season. (Photo by John Naughton.)

Lisa had the opportunity to hear tributes and kind words while she fought cancer. Her battle inspired others.

The Girls Union released a statement after word of her passing was announced: “From becoming a prep legend at Hubbard-Radcliffe High School, starring for the Drake University basketball team, and serving as an administrator at the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union, Lisa was the embodiment of The Iowa Girl. The IGHSAU and its Board of Directors express their sympathies to the family of our beloved colleague.”

According to the Zion UCC church of Hubbard’s Facebook page: “We give thanks to God for the life of Lisa Brinkmeyer VanDeventer who has gone to her heavenly home today. She was loved by many, especially her Creator. Her visitation will be on Sunday and celebration of life service on Monday at South Hardin Middle School. Please keep Lynn, Blain, Ted, Hitch and Libby in your prayers.”

There’s also a link available of several videos of Lisa online here.

Athlete, student, administrator, wife, mother, friend and colleague. Lisa wore many hats. And wore them so well.

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